By: Ashiadey Dotse
President John Dramani Mahama has declared that Ghana’s current programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will be the final bailout the country ever seeks, as his government works to build a strong and resilient economy that does not depend on external rescue packages.
The President made the assertion while speaking at the Annual New Year School and Conference in Accra on Tuesday January 6, 2026. He said Ghana is expected to exit the IMF Extended Credit Facility programme by the middle of this year, expressing confidence that the country will never again return to the IMF for financial support.
According to President Mahama, the IMF programme has been successful, but Ghana must now focus on strengthening domestic revenue mobilisation, restoring fiscal discipline and rebuilding confidence in the financial sector. He stressed that economic resilience cannot be achieved through austerity alone, but through production, inclusion and shared prosperity.
The President also announced major infrastructure plans, including the commencement of construction of the Accra–Kumasi Expressway this year. He described the current situation, where Ghana’s two largest cities are linked by a single-lane road, as unacceptable, citing long traffic delays experienced during the Christmas and New Year period.
President Mahama further revealed plans to develop a Green Digital City spanning the Greater Accra, Eastern and Volta regions. He said the new city will house some government offices and institutions to help decongest Accra. He clarified that the project will not replace Accra as the capital but will serve as a smart and innovative city to support national development.
Touching on human capital development, the President described education, skills training, health and innovation as the foundation of sustainable growth. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to the Digital Youth Village and Centre for Digital Youth Development at the University of Ghana, announcing additional funding to expand the initiative and establish 16 digital hubs of excellence across the country.
On governance, President Mahama said his administration is strengthening anti-corruption institutions and promoting accountability, transparency and national discipline. He disclosed plans to establish an independent Value for Money Office this year to ensure public funds are used efficiently.
He also confirmed that the ban on ministers and public officers travelling first class remains in force, warning that any official who violates the directive will be sanctioned.
President Mahama concluded by stressing that sustainable development requires responsible leadership and active citizen participation, adding that his government is determined to build an economy that is strong, inclusive and independent of IMF bailouts.
